At least five keys have different names or symbols on a Windows keyboard than they do on a Mac keyboard, which can make it difficult to follow Mac-related instructions. For example, a software manual may tell you to hold down the command key ( ⌘ ), which appears to be missing from your Windows keyboard. Tech 101: How to Use a Windows Keyboard With Your Mac Tuesday, January 17th, 2017 Author: Tom Nelson. It may not be the best kept secret, but you don’t have to use Apple-branded keyboards with your Mac. You have a wide range of keyboards to choose from, including most of. 2020-4-5 How to use a Windows keyboard with Mac: Remap the keys. Open System Preferences on your Mac. Click Keyboard (on the second row of options), then Modifier Keys.
Mac equivalents of Windows keys
Many of the keys that you'd see on a PC have equivalent keys on an Apple keyboard.
Windows logo: Press Command (⌘).
Backspace or Delete: Press Delete.
Enter or ⏎: Press Return.
Alt (left): Press Option (⌥).
Alt GR (right): Press Option + Control.
Applications: This key isn't available on Apple keyboards.
Use the On-Screen Keyboard for other functions
If your Apple keyboard doesn't include the following keys, you can recreate them in Windows using the On-Screen Keyboard.
Use the Snipping Tool to print screen
To recreate the Print Screen and Print Active Window function in Windows, use the Snipping Tool.
If your keyboard isn't working as expected in Windows
If your Apple keyboard works as expected in macOS but not in Windows, try these solutions:
- Install the latest Apple software updates for Windows.
- Install the latest Windows support software.
- If you're using Microsoft Windows 10 N, install the latest Media Feature Pack.
Learn more
- Microsoft provides a keyboard mapping article that describes using a Windows keyboard with macOS.
- Use Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator to find key combinations for the unique characters used by the language and region your Apple keyboard is designed to support:
- Download, install, and open the Microsoft Keyboard Layout Creator.
- Choose File > Load Existing Keyboard.
- Select the keyboard you want to see.
- Find the country or region name in the keyboard list that's followed by '(Apple)'.
- Follow the instructions provided with the app. You can print images of the keyboard, including what keys look like when holding modifiers like Shift, Option, or Fn.
BestAlternatives to Apple's Magic KeyboardiMore2020
Every iMac and iMac Pro comes with a specially designed, Apple-branded Magic Keyboard, and you either love it or hate it. If you love the look of the Magic Keyboard but don't love the feel, or maybe you were hoping for a little more than what comes in the box, we've got a list of keyboards that have a very similar design but offer something a little different.
Easy multi-pairing: Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard
Microsoft Keyboard Macro
Staff pickThis little ditty is my personal favorite. It's a compact keyboard perfect for your Mac that has plenty of useful additional features. It has the added benefit of being specially designed to control features on your iPhone or iPad, like navigating to the Home screen or switching apps. With one button, you can switch between three different devices, including Windows and Android products.
$30 at AmazonComes with Numeric Keypad: Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad
If you love everything about the Magic Keyboard, but you really want a numerical pad, this model's nearly identical to the Magic Keyboard except that it has a 10-key number pad, a couple of additional function keys, and dedicated control keys. It's the perfect solution for Mac users that need more keyboard functionality.
From $112 at AmazonTrackpad intact: Twelve South MagicBridge
If you already have a Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad and want to keep it in a tidy unit, the MagicBridge is the perfect setup for you. It's not a keyboard, but a case for your keyboard and trackpad. It fits both perfectly, and you can switch the trackpad to either side. All ports and switches are exposed for convenient access.
$30 at AmazonMouse included: FENIFOX Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
Microsoft Keyboard To Mac
FENIFOX's keyboard looks very similar to the Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad, but it comes with a mouse as well. The set is available in the Pink color shown here as well as Silver. The sloped angle makes typing more comfortable.
$30 at AmazonSolar charged: Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard K750
The K750 is a hugely popular alternative to Apple's Magic Keyboard because it's a full-sized keyboard, complete with a very similar spacing pattern. Though it's called 'solar,' it actually charges up using any light, including a desk lamp in your hotel room.
Microsoft Keyboard Mac Driver
$50 at AmazonBudget friendly: Anker Ultra Slim keyboard
For a low-cost alternative to Apple's Magic Keyboard, you'll be happy with Anker's universal Bluetooth keyboard. It uses the Magic Keyboard's scissor mechanism keys, so your typing experience will be very familiar. It doesn't come with a lot of bells and whistles, but for the price, it's the perfect alternative.
$22 at AmazonUse Mac Keyboard Windows 10
Which one should you choose?
There are lots of third-party keyboards for Mac on the market. These are specifically for those of you that like the Magic Keyboard's design but are looking for something slightly different. My personal favorite is the Logitech K380 Multi-Device Bluetooth Keyboard. I love being able to switch between my Mac, iPhone, and iPad quickly.
However, if you want something inexpensive that you can toss into your bag when you're on the go, then pick up an Anker Ultra Slim Keyboard. It's compact, just two thirds the size of a traditional keyboard. The battery will go six months between charges with typical use and takes only 2.5 hours to charge fully.
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💻 🖥 🍎 ❤️Connect Microsoft Keyboard To Mac
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